We Are America Coalition Statement on Today’s Introduction of the Secure Fence Act

(Los Angeles, CA) – The We Are America Coalition issued this statement in response to the introduction of the Secure Fence Act (H.R. 6061) by Representative Peter King (R – NY), Homeland Security Chairman.

Millions throughout our country have made their voices clear – we need fair, just and comprehensive immigration reform. Unfortunately, Congress is not listening as witnessed by the introduction of the Secure Fence Act which is expected to be considered on the floor tomorrow. The Secure Fence Act proposes to construct fencing and enhanced security barriers in the border area from the Pacific Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico. It is expected that House Republican leaders will introduce additional border security measures in the coming weeks.

Today’s introduction from Rep. King is the first step in the wrong direction by Congress. Proposals that seek to further militarize our borders will not address the grave problems with the current immigration system. It is not a solution that will address the root causes of immigration. It will not provide stable protections. It will do nothing to reduce death and suffering along the border. Instead, it will promote the unjust and inhumane treatment of the 12 million immigrants that are currently here working and contributing to our nation.

Congress conducted “field hearings” as a way of “listening” to the American people’s concerns about immigration. But we must remember that panelists were carefully selected to only voice one side of the issue. If Congressional leaders are serious about fixing what is broken and securing our borders, stabilizing our workforce, and restoring the rule of the law, they should put aside partisan politics and negotiate a comprehensive solution to our broken immigration system.

In the meantime, the We Are America Coalition will continue to work to ensure that any immigration reform legislation includes the following principles:

Legalization with path to citizenship for hard working immigrants and their families in America;

An effective visa program for future immigrants that protects their rights and includes a path to citizenship;

Keep families together;

Protection of our Civil Rights and Civil Liberties and no criminalization of immigrants or their allies;